How to Choose Chainsaw Chain Pitch and Gauge
Match chain pitch, gauge and drive link count to your saw’s bar and sprocket. Check the owner’s manual or the guide bar stamp, then confirm the chain is approved for your exact saw model.
On this page (8 sections)
- What are chainsaw chain pitch and gauge?
- How do you find the right chain size?
- Why do pitch, gauge and drive link count all matter?
- How do pitch and gauge appear on chain labels?
- What does a chainsaw chain pitch and gauge example look like?
- Should you choose a different pitch or gauge for a better cut?
- What should you do before replacing the chain?
- How do you choose chainsaw chain pitch and gauge?
Chainsaw chain pitch and gauge must match your saw’s guide bar and sprockets, and the drive link count must fit the bar. Check the owner’s manual or the guide bar stamp before you buy a replacement loop.
A chain labeled 16 in can still be the wrong replacement. The length describes the bar size, while pitch, gauge and drive link count determine whether the chain matches the parts it runs on.
If you’re comparing chainsaws and pole saws, use this guide to read the chain dimensions before choosing a replacement.
What are chainsaw chain pitch and gauge?
Pitch is the spacing between chain rivets, while gauge is the thickness of the drive links. Both dimensions must match the saw’s guide bar and sprockets.
Pitch is measured as half the distance between three consecutive rivets. Common labels include 1/4 in, .325 in, 3/8 in and .404 in.
Some chains use low-profile pitch, marked as 3/8 in LP.
Gauge refers to the thickness of the drive links that slide inside the guide bar groove. Common gauge markings include .043 in, .050 in, .058 in and .063 in.
The right size depends on your bar, not on which number sounds heavier or more durable.
These measurements work together. A chain with the correct pitch but the wrong gauge can fail to fit the bar groove, and a matching gauge does not make the wrong pitch compatible with the sprockets.
What is chainsaw chain gauge on the bar?
The chain gauge is often stamped on the side of the guide bar, sometimes alongside pitch and drive link count. Look for values such as .043 or .050, and compare them with the chain specifications.
The manual may describe the gauge in thousandths of an inch. For example, .050 in is fifty thousandths of an inch.
Don’t confuse gauge with the bar’s cutting length.
How do you find the right chain size?
Read the guide bar stamp or owner’s manual, then confirm the chain against the saw model. Record pitch, gauge and drive link count before shopping.
Use this short checklist:
- Find the pitch on the bar or in the manual.
- Find the gauge marking.
- Record the drive link count, often marked as a number followed by “DL.”
- Check the bar length and part number.
- Confirm the replacement chain is approved for the chainsaw model.
A chain package may show several measurements at once. Compare every one with your saw’s information; a similar brand name or bar length is not enough to establish fit.
If you’re shopping for a best chainsaw replacement chain, use these dimensions to narrow the options before comparing chain type or pack size.
How can you count drive links?
Drive links are the small tabs along the bottom of the chain that run inside the guide bar groove. Count every tab around the loop if the chain or bar does not show the number.
Counting is easier when the chain is laid out straight and the links are marked as you go. Keep your hands clear of the cutters, and wear gloves while handling a chain.
Why do pitch, gauge and drive link count all matter?
The replacement must match all three dimensions because they describe different parts of the fit. Pitch matches the sprockets, gauge fits the bar groove, and drive link count matches the bar length and layout.
The chain’s stated length can be useful, but it does not replace the drive link count. Bars sold as the same nominal length may use different chain specifications.
After confirming fit, compare chainsaw bar and chain combos for a matched set.
A mismatch can make installation impossible or prevent the chain from seating and running as intended. Don’t try to compensate for the wrong size by adjusting chain tension.
Does a 16-inch chain fit every 16-inch chainsaw?
No. A 16-inch chain can have different pitch, gauge and drive link count.
The two KAKEI chains below are both described as 16 in and 3/8 in LP with .043 in gauge, but one has 55 drive links and the other has 56.
The difference in drive link count shows why a bar length alone is not enough. Check your exact saw and bar information before choosing either one.
How do pitch and gauge appear on chain labels?
Chain labels usually state pitch, gauge and drive link count as separate measurements. Compare each label with the markings for your bar and saw.
| Label detail | What it describes | Where to confirm |
|---|---|---|
| Pitch, such as 3/8 in LP | Rivet spacing and sprocket fit | Manual, bar stamp or chain packaging |
| Gauge, such as .043 in | Drive link thickness and bar groove fit | Manual or bar stamp |
| Drive links, such as 55 DL | Number of links that run inside the bar | Manual, bar stamp or careful count |
| Bar length, such as 16 in | Nominal guide bar length | Bar and saw specifications |
The label may use a decimal number, a fraction or a low-profile abbreviation. Make sure the values refer to the chain size you need and not a different chain in a multi-pack.
What does a chainsaw chain pitch and gauge example look like?
A chain marked 3/8 in LP, .043 in gauge and 55 drive links has three separate fit details. Each must line up with the saw’s bar, sprockets and approved chain setup.
For example, the KAKEI chain with 55 drive links is described for select Stihl MS170, MS171 and MS180C models. That model information is useful, but you should still confirm your bar’s markings and part number because chainsaws can be fitted with different bars.
The Husqvarna X-Cut SP33G is a different example: it is a 20 in chain with .325 in pitch, .050 in gauge and 80 drive links. It is described for select Husqvarna 450 Rancher, 445(E), 450(E), 545(MII) and 550XP(MII) saws.
These examples show why you should compare the full set of dimensions and model fit. Don’t use a chain’s size as a substitute for checking your saw’s manual or bar stamp.
Should you choose a different pitch or gauge for a better cut?
Choose the size specified for your saw, not a different pitch or gauge to change cutting performance. Chain type and cutter design are separate choices that come after compatibility.
A chain may be full chisel or semi-chisel, for example, but those labels do not tell you whether the chain fits. Start with the measurements and approved models, then compare chain style and maintenance needs.
For more options, see our guides to best KAKEI chainsaw chain and best carbide chainsaw chain. Use each guide alongside your saw’s exact chain requirements.
What should you do before replacing the chain?
Confirm the new chain’s pitch, gauge and drive link count before installation. Then follow the saw maker’s procedure for fitting and tensioning the chain.
Use the how to replace a chainsaw chain guide for the basic replacement steps. After fitting the chain, follow the manual’s tension check and chain brake instructions before starting the saw.
Keep the chain lubricated according to the manufacturer’s directions. For a mini saw, see how to oil a mini chainsaw.
Our guide explains how often to oil a chainsaw chain.
If your chain markings are unreadable, use the guide bar part number or ask a qualified dealer to identify the correct size. Don’t order based only on the saw’s brand or bar length.
How do you choose chainsaw chain pitch and gauge?
Choose the chain whose pitch, gauge and drive link count match the guide bar and sprockets, then verify its fit for your exact saw model. If any marking is unclear, check the manual or bar part number before ordering.
That rule applies to standard and mini saws alike. For a compact saw, start with our best mini chainsaw replacement chain guide; for a brand-specific search, compare chains for ECHO chainsaws or WORX chainsaw chains.
For additional sizing examples, see the guides to best 12 inch chainsaw chain, best chainsaw chains 18 inch, best Stihl chainsaw chains and best 16 inch chainsaw chain. If a chain needs a repair link or a length change, check the best chainsaw chain links kit and best chainsaw chain breaker and spinner guides.
Frequently asked questions
What is chainsaw chain gauge?
Chainsaw chain gauge is the thickness of the drive links that sit in the guide bar groove. Match it to the gauge marked on your bar or specified in the saw manual.
A chain with the wrong gauge may not fit the groove correctly, even if its pitch is right.
What is chainsaw chain pitch?
Chainsaw chain pitch is the spacing between the chain’s rivets, measured as half the distance between three consecutive rivets. It must match the drive sprocket and bar nose sprocket.
Check the saw manual or bar markings instead of guessing from the chain’s appearance.
Can I use a chain with the same length but a different gauge?
No. Chain length alone does not make a replacement fit.
The pitch and gauge must match the saw’s bar and sprockets, and the drive link count must match the bar.
Check all three dimensions and the saw’s approved chain options before buying.
How do I find my chainsaw chain size?
Look in the owner’s manual or read the markings stamped on the guide bar. Find pitch, gauge and drive link count, then confirm the chain length and compatibility with your saw model.
If the markings are worn or unclear, use the bar part number to check the correct replacement.
Do all 16-inch chainsaw bars use the same chain?
No. A 16-inch bar can use chains with different pitches, gauges and drive link counts.
The bar length is only one part of the fit.
Check the bar stamp or manual, then confirm that the chain is approved for your chainsaw model.
